Methods for determining neurostimulation electrode configurations based on neural localization

ABSTRACT

Methods and systems for obtaining and analyzing electromyography responses of electrodes of an implanted neurostimulation lead for use neurostimulation programming are provided herein. System setups for neural localization and/or programming include a clinician programmer coupleable with a temporary or permanent lead implantable in a patient and at least one pair of EMG sensing electrodes minimally invasively positioned on a skin surface or within the patient. The clinician programmer is configured to determine a plurality of recommended electrode configurations based on thresholds and EMG responses of the plurality of electrodes and rank the electrode configuration according to pre-determined criteria. The clinician programmer further includes graphical user interface on which the plurality of recommended electrode configurations are displayed for modification and/or selection by a clinician in programming an IPG or EPG coupled with the lead to apply a neurostimulation treatment according to the selected electrode configuration.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/991,784 entitled “METHODS FOR DETERMINING NEUROSTIMULATION ELECTRODE CONFIGURATIONS BASED ON NEURAL LOCALIZATION,” filed on Jan. 8, 2016, which is continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/827,067 entitled “METHODS FOR DETERMINING NEUROSTIMULATION ELECTRODE CONFIGURATIONS BASED ON NEURAL LOCALIZATION,” filed on Aug. 14, 2015, which claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application 62/041,611 filed on Aug. 25, 2014; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/101,897 filed on Jan. 9, 2015; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

The present application is related to U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/827,074, entitled “Devices and Methods for Anchoring of Neurostimulation Leads”; U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/827,081, entitled “External Pulse Generator Device and Associated Methods for Trial Nerve Stimulation”; U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/827,108, entitled “Electromyographic Lead Positioning and Stimulation Titration in a Nerve Stimulation System for Treatment of Overactive Bladder”; and U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/827,095, entitled “Integrated Electromyographic Clinician Programmer For Use With an Implantable Neurostimulator”; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/101,666, entitled “Patient Remote and Associated Methods of Use With a Nerve Stimulation System” filed on Jan. 9, 2015; 62/101,884, entitled “Attachment Devices and Associated Methods of Use With a Nerve Stimulation Charging Device” filed on Jan. 9, 2015; 62/101,782, entitled “Improved Antenna and Methods of Use For an Implantable Nerve Stimulator” filed on Jan. 9, 2015; and 62/191,134, entitled “Implantable Nerve Stimulator Having Internal Electronics Without ASIC and Methods of Use” filed on Jul. 10, 2015; each of which is assigned to the same assignee and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to neurostimulation treatment systems and associated devices, as well as methods of treatment, implantation and configuration of such treatment systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Treatments with implantable neurostimulation systems have become increasingly common in recent years. While such systems have shown promise in treating a number of conditions, effectiveness of treatment may vary considerably between patients. A number of factors may lead to the very different outcomes that patients experience, and viability of treatment can be difficult to determine before implantation. For example, stimulation systems often make use of an array of electrodes to treat one or more target nerve structures. The electrodes are often mounted together on a multi-electrode lead, and the lead implanted in tissue of the patient at a position that is intended to result in electrical coupling of the electrode to the target nerve structure, typically with at least a portion of the coupling being provided via intermediate tissues. Other approaches may also be employed, for example, with one or more electrodes attached to the skin overlying the target nerve structures, implanted in cuffs around a target nerve, or the like. Regardless, the physician will typically seek to establish an appropriate treatment protocol by varying the electrical stimulation that is applied to the electrodes.

Current stimulation electrode placement/implantation techniques and known treatment setting techniques suffer from significant disadvantages. The nerve tissue structures of different patients can be quite different, with the locations and branching of nerves that perform specific functions and/or innervate specific organs being challenging to accurately predict or identify. The electrical properties of the tissue structures surrounding a target nerve structure may also be quite different among different patients, and the neural response to stimulation may be markedly dissimilar, with an electrical stimulation pulse pattern, pulse width, frequency, and/or amplitude that is effective to affect a body function of one patient and potentially imposing significant discomfort or pain, or having limited effect, on another patient. Even in patients where implantation of a neurostimulation system provides effective treatment, frequent adjustments and changes to the stimulation protocol are often required before a suitable treatment program can be determined, often involving repeated office visits and significant discomfort for the patient before efficacy is achieved. While a number of complex and sophisticated lead structures and stimulation setting protocols have been implemented to seek to overcome these challenges, the variability in lead placement results, the clinician time to establish suitable stimulation signals, and the discomfort (and in cases the significant pain) that is imposed on the patient remain less than ideal. In addition, the lifetime and battery life of such devices is relatively short, such that implanted systems are routinely replaced every few years, which requires additional surgeries, patient discomfort, and significant costs to healthcare systems.

The tremendous benefits of these neural stimulation therapies have not yet been fully realized. Therefore, it is desirable to provide improved neurostimulation methods, systems and devices, as well as methods for implanting and configuring such neurostimulation systems for a particular patient or condition being treated. It would be particularly helpful to provide such systems and methods so as to improve ease of use by the physician in positioning and configuring the system, as well as improve patient comfort and alleviation of symptoms for the patient. It would further be desirable to improve ease and accuracy of lead placement as well as improve determination and availability of effective neurostimulation treatment programs.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to neurostimulation treatment systems and associated devices and methods, and in particular to improved programming methods using electromyography (EMG) integrated with clinician programmers. The present invention has particular application to sacral nerve stimulation treatment systems configured to treat bladder and bowel related dysfunctions. It will be appreciated however that the present invention may also be utilized for the treatment of pain or other indications, such as movement or affective disorders, as will be appreciated by one of skill in the art.

In one aspect, methods in accordance with the present invention obtain and analyze electrode responses of an implanted neurostimulation lead for use in neurostimulation programming. Such methods include steps of determining a stimulation threshold for each of the electrodes with a clinician computing device by individually stimulating each electrode and increasing stimulation of the respective electrode until at least one desired neuromuscular response corresponding to stimulation of the target nerve is indicated by an EMG response obtained by the clinician computing device and recording the stimulation at which the response is evoked. In some embodiments, the method may include verifying a position and/or selection of an electrode with an EMG recording of a response to stimulation below a muscle activation threshold. In one aspect, programming is performing using an EMG recording of a single neuromuscular response, such as a big toe response. The EMG response can be recorded with the clinician computing device and used in determining one or more neurostimulation programs corresponding to one or more electrode configurations of the electrodes.

In another aspect, the clinician programmer determines multiple recommended electrode configurations for delivering a neurostimulation treatment based in part on thresholds and EMG recordings of neuromuscular responses to stimulation of one or more electrodes. The EMG recordings may be obtained from one or more pairs of EMG electrode patches positioned to record neuromuscular responses to stimulation of the one or more electrodes, which may include one or both of a big toe response or anal bellows. In one aspect, the desired neuromuscular response is a maximum CMAP at a lowest stimulation threshold or may be a particular response level determined by the clinician. In some embodiments, determining the stimulation threshold includes steps of receiving an input, with the clinician computing device and confirming a visual observation of the neuromuscular response indicated by the EMG response. Where the nerve targeted being targeted by the neurostimulation treatment is the sacral nerve, the neuromuscular response being measured by EMG typically include one or both of a big toe and an anal bellows response to stimulation.

In yet another aspect, methods in accordance with the invention pertain to programming of a neurostimulation device coupled with electrodes of a neurostimulation lead implanted near a target nerve. An example methods includes steps of: obtaining a stimulation threshold for each of the electrodes with a clinician programming device, wherein the stimulation threshold is based, at least in part, on an EMG recording of at least one neuromuscular response during stimulation of a given electrode; identifying one or more electrode configurations for delivering a neurostimulation treatment, at least in part, based on the stimulation thresholds obtained by the clinician programming device; and applying the one or more identified programs and obtaining an EMG recording with the clinician programming device. From the thresholds and EMG recording, the clinician program can determine one or more recommended electrode configuration for use in delivering neurostimulation therapy. In some embodiments, the stimulation threshold are obtained by the clinician programmer during programming, while in other embodiments the clinician programmer obtains stimulation thresholds measured during lead placement.

In another aspect, methods of programming a neurostimulation device include steps of applying one or more neurostimulation programs identified for the electrodes and verifying electrode position and/or electrode selection by obtaining an EMG recording of a big toe response at a given amplitude. The clinician programmer then determines a neurostimulation program from one or more identified programs based in part on the EMG recording of the big toe response such that the first neurostimulation program delivers stimulation at an amplitude sufficiently lower than the given amplitude so as to avoid an outwardly visible big toe response to stimulation delivered during long term therapy.

In one aspect, system setups that allow for improved programming of neurostimulation systems using EMG are provided. Such a setup may include a clinician programmer operatively coupled with an IPG or EPG of the neurostimulation system; an implantable lead coupleable to the clinician programmer, the lead having multiple electrodes; and at least one set of EMG sensing electrodes minimally invasively positionable on a skin surface or within the patient. The clinician programmer can be configured for: obtaining a stimulation threshold for each of the electrodes based, at least in part, on an EMG recording of at least one neuromuscular response during stimulation of a given electrode; identifying one or more electrode configurations based, at least in part, on the stimulation thresholds obtained by the clinician programming device; and applying the one or more identified programs and recording an EMG response with the clinician programming device. The clinician programmer can then determine a first neurostimulation program, or a set of programs for selection by a clinician, based in part on the EMG recordings.

In another aspect, methods of the invention pertain to determining multiple recommended electrode configurations of an implanted neurostimulation lead for selection by the clinician. Such methods may include steps of: obtaining a stimulation threshold value for each electrode lead with a clinician programming device; identifying cathode configurations of the electrode configurations with the clinician programming device; identifying anode configurations of the electrode configurations with the clinician programming device; and outputting the electrode configurations to a clinician on a graphical user interface display of the clinician programming device for modification and/or selection by the clinician.

In some embodiments, methods of programming include identifying cathode configurations by categorizing the electrodes in one of at least three different tiers based on the stimulation threshold values, the at least three different tiers including a first tier, a second tier and a third tier, the first tier denoting good electrodes for therapy delivery, the second tier denoting marginal electrodes for delivering therapy, and the third tier denoting electrodes unacceptable for delivering therapy. The electrodes are then ranked within each tier as to suitability for delivering neurostimulation therapy. The clinician programmer than assigned the cathode configurations based on the ranking of the electrodes, tiers and a pre-determined criteria.

In some embodiments, the pre-determined criteria by which the cathode configurations are determined, includes: (i) assigning single cathode configurations for each electrode in the first tier, prioritized from farthest pair to closest pair; (ii) assigning single cathode configurations for each electrode in the first tier, prioritized from lowest to highest threshold; (iii) assigning double cathode configurations for each pair of adjacent electrodes in the first tier, prioritized by lowest combined threshold; (iv) assigning single cathode configurations for each electrode in the second tier, prioritized from lowest to highest threshold; and (v) assigning double cathode configurations for each pair of adjacent electrodes from the first and second tiers, prioritized by lowest combined threshold. In one aspect, the criteria is applied in the order listed above. The criteria is applied until multiple suitable electrode configurations are determined. In an example embodiment, this method is performed by the clinician programmer until at least four recommended electrode configurations are determined, which are then displayed on a graphical user interface of the clinician programmer for modification and/or selection by the clinician for delivery of the neurostimulation therapy.

Such methods of determining electrode configurations for neurostimulation programming can further include identifying anode configurations according to certain other criteria. For example, the method may assign as an anode for each cathode configuration an electrode that is furthest from the assigned cathode when the desired therapy is bipolar or assign as an anode a can or housing of the IPG when the desired therapy is monopolar. In some embodiments, the method may assign the can as an anode in a bipolar therapy. In some embodiments, methods of determining electrode configuration include measuring impedance of each electrode and/or obtaining subjective data from the patient as to any negative effects associated with stimulation of any electrodes and excluding any electrodes with unacceptable impedance levels or any electrodes that result in negative effects for the patient. The clinician device may be configured to perform these impedance measurements and/or to receive the subjective patient data.

In yet another aspect, methods of reprogramming a neurostimulation device are provided. Such methods can include establishing communication with the neurostimulation device using a clinician programming device; obtaining, with the clinician programming device, a first therapy program stored on a memory of the neurostimulation device, the first therapy program being selected as a current therapy delivered by the neurostimulation device; determining a second therapy program with the clinician programming device; and storing the second therapy program on the neurostimulation device with the clinician programming device, the second therapy program being selected as the current therapy delivered by the neurostimulation device. Determining the second therapy program can include adjusting one or more parameters of the first therapy program with the clinician programming device.

Such reprogramming methods can include obtaining, with the clinician programming device, the most recent therapy programs applied by the implanted neurostimulation device and determining a new therapy program based on one or more of the therapy programs last applied. The most recently applied therapy programs can be stored on a memory of the neurostimulation device such that any clinician programmer can be used for reprogramming according to such methods, even if the clinician programmer was not used for initial programming.

Further areas of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating various embodiments, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to necessarily limit the scope of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a nerve stimulation system, which includes a clinician programmer and a patient remote used in positioning and/or programming of both a trial neurostimulation system and a permanently implanted neurostimulation system, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 2A-2C show diagrams of the nerve structures along the spine, the lower back and sacrum region, which may be stimulated in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIG. 3A shows an example of a fully implanted neurostimulation system in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIG. 3B shows an example of a neurostimulation system having a partly implanted stimulation lead and an external pulse generator adhered to the skin of the patient for use in a trial stimulation, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIG. 4 shows an example of a neurostimulation system having an implantable stimulation lead, an implantable pulse generator, and an external charging device, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 5A-5C show detail views of an implantable pulse generator and associated components for use in a neurostimulation system, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 6A-6B show signal characteristics of a neurostimulation program, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic of a clinician programmer configuration, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 8A-1 thru 8A-3 and 8B schematically illustrate workflows for using a clinician programmer in placing the neurostimulation leads and programming the implanted neurostimulation lead, in accordance with aspects of the invention

FIG. 9A schematically illustrates a nerve stimulation system setup for neural localization and lead implantation that utilizes a control unit with a stimulation clip, ground patches, two electromyography sensor patch sets, and ground patch sets connected during the operation of placing a trial or permanent neurostimulation system, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIG. 9B illustrates electromyography sensor patches, FIG. 9C illustrates attachment of electromyography sensor patches for big toe response, and FIG. 9D illustrates the anatomy on which electromyography sensor patches are attached to record an anal bellows response, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIG. 9E illustrates an example compound muscle action potential response in electromyography and FIG. 9F illustrates a raw EMG trace and processing of electromyography data, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIG. 9G illustrates a graphical user interface display on a clinician programmer in a system setup utilizing electromyography for neural localization with a foramen needle, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIG. 10 illustrate differing positions of the neuro stimulation lead relative the targeted nerve during placement of the lead and

FIGS. 11A-11L illustrate curves of R-values of the electrodes used to determine distance of the electrodes from the target nerve to facilitate placement of the lead, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 12A-12B illustrate differing positions of the neurostimulation lead relative the targeted nerve during placement of the lead and

FIGS. 13A-13F illustrate curves of R-values of the electrodes used to determine distance of the electrodes from the target nerve to facilitate placement of the lead, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 14A-14B illustrate a graphical user interface display of a clinician programmer during electromyography assisted lead placement, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 15A-15L illustrate a graphical user interface display of a clinician programmer during an alternative electromyography assisted neurostimulation lead placement procedure, in accordance with aspects of the invention, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 16A-16B illustrates system setups for conducting electromyography assisted programming of the neurostimulation system, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIG. 17 illustrates an example method by which electrode configuration recommendations are determined and provided to a physician during programming, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIG. 18 illustrates an example electrode configuration recommendation for display on a clinician programmer during programming and/or reprogramming of a neurostimulation system, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 19A-19B illustrate electrode configuration recommendations based on example case studies of electrode thresholds, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 20A-20K illustrate a graphical user interface display of a clinician programmer during an alternative electromyography assisted neurostimulation lead placement procedure, in accordance with aspects of the invention, in accordance with aspects of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to neurostimulation treatment systems and associated devices, as well as methods of treatment, implantation/placement and configuration of such treatment systems. In particular embodiments, the invention relates to sacral nerve stimulation treatment systems configured to treat bladder dysfunctions, including overactive bladder (“OAB”), as well as fecal dysfunctions and relieve symptoms associated therewith. For ease of description, the present invention may be described in its use for OAB, it will be appreciated however that the present invention may also be utilized for any variety of neuromodulation uses, such as bowel disorders (e.g., fecal incontinence, fecal frequency, fecal urgency, and/or fecal retention), the treatment of pain or other indications, such as movement or affective disorders, as will be appreciated by one of skill in the art.

I. Neurostimulation Indications

Neurostimulation (or neuromodulation as may be used interchangeably hereunder) treatment systems, such as any of those described herein, can be used to treat a variety of ailments and associated symptoms, such as acute pain disorders, movement disorders, affective disorders, as well as bladder related dysfunction and fecal dysfunction. Examples of pain disorders that may be treated by neurostimulation include failed back surgery syndrome, reflex sympathetic dystrophy or complex regional pain syndrome, causalgia, arachnoiditis, and peripheral neuropathy. Movement orders include muscle paralysis, tremor, dystonia and Parkinson's disease. Affective disorders include depressions, obsessive-compulsive disorder, cluster headache, Tourette syndrome and certain types of chronic pain. Bladder related dysfunctions include but are not limited to OAB, urge incontinence, urgency-frequency, and urinary retention. OAB can include urge incontinence and urgency-frequency alone or in combination. Urge incontinence is the involuntary loss or urine associated with a sudden, strong desire to void (urgency). Urgency-frequency is the frequent, often uncontrollable urges to urinate (urgency) that often result in voiding in very small amounts (frequency). Urinary retention is the inability to empty the bladder. Neurostimulation treatments can be configured to address a particular condition by effecting neurostimulation of targeted nerve tissues relating to the sensory and/or motor control associated with that condition or associated symptom. Bowel disorders may include any of the variety of inflammatory, motility, and incontinence conditions.

In one aspect, the methods and systems described herein are particularly suited for treatment of urinary and fecal dysfunctions. These conditions have been historically under-recognized and significantly underserved by the medical community. OAB is one of the most common urinary dysfunctions. It is a complex condition characterized by the presence of bothersome urinary symptoms, including urgency, frequency, nocturia and urge incontinence. It is estimated that about 40 million Americans suffer from OAB. Of the adult population, about 16% of all men and women live with OAB symptoms.

OAB symptoms can have a significant negative impact on the psychosocial functioning and the quality of life of patients. People with OAB often restrict activities and/or develop coping strategies. Furthermore, OAB imposes a significant financial burden on individuals, their families, and healthcare organizations. The prevalence of co-morbid conditions is also significantly higher for patients with OAB than in the general population. Co-morbidities may include falls and fractures, urinary tract infections, skin infections, vulvovaginitis, cardiovascular, and central nervous system pathologies. Chronic constipation, fecal incontinence, and overlapping chronic constipation occur more frequently in patients with OAB.

Conventional treatments of OAB generally include lifestyle modifications as a first course of action. Lifestyle modifications include eliminating bladder irritants (such as caffeine) from the diet, managing fluid intake, reducing weight, stopping smoking, and managing bowel regularity. Behavioral modifications include changing voiding habits (such as bladder training and delayed voiding), training pelvic floor muscles to improve strength and control of urethral sphincter, biofeedback and techniques for urge suppression. Medications are considered a second-line treatment for OAB. These include anti-cholinergic medications (oral, transdermal patch, and gel) and oral beta-3 adrenergic agonists. However, anti-cholinergics are frequently associated with bothersome, systemic side effects including dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, blurred vision, somnolence, and confusion. Studies have found that more than 50% of patients stop using anti-cholinergic medications within 90 days due to a lack of benefit, adverse events, or cost.

When these approaches are unsuccessful, third-line treatment options suggested by the American Urological Association include intradetrusor (bladder smooth muscle) injections of botulinum toxin (BTX), Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation (PINS) and Sacral Nerve Stimulation (SNM). BTX is administered via a series of intradetrusor injections under cystoscopic guidance, but repeat injections of BTX are generally required every 4 to 12 months to maintain effect and BTX may undesirably result in urinary retention. A number or randomized controlled studies have shown some efficacy of BTX injections in OAB patients, but long-term safety and effectiveness of BTX for OAB is largely unknown.

PINS therapy consists of weekly, 30-minute sessions over a period of 12 weeks, each session using electrical stimulation that is delivered from a hand-held stimulator to the sacral plexus via the tibial nerve. For patients who respond well and continue treatment, ongoing sessions, typically every 3-4 weeks, are needed to maintain symptom reduction. There is potential for declining efficacy if patients fail to adhere to the treatment schedule. Efficacy of PINS has been demonstrated in a few randomized-controlled studies, however, there is limited data on PTNS effectiveness beyond 3-years and PTNS is not recommended for patients seeking a cure for urge urinary incontinence (UUI) (e.g., 100% reduction in incontinence episodes) (EAU Guidelines).

II. Sacral Neuromodulation

SNM is an established therapy that provides a safe, effective, reversible, and long-lasting treatment option for the management of urge incontinence, urgency-frequency, and non-obstructive urinary retention. SNM therapy involves the use of mild electrical pulses to stimulate the sacral nerves located in the lower back. Electrodes are placed next to a sacral nerve, usually at the S3 level, by inserting the electrode leads into the corresponding foramen of the sacrum. The electrodes are inserted subcutaneously and are subsequently attached to an implantable pulse generator (IPG). The safety and effectiveness of SNM for the treatment of OAB, including durability at five years for both urge incontinence and urgency-frequency patients, is supported by multiple studies and is well-documented. SNM has also been approved to treat chronic fecal incontinence in patients who have failed or are not candidates for more conservative treatments.

A. Implantation of Sacral Neuromodulation System

Currently, SNM qualification has a trial phase, and is followed if successful by a permanent implant. The trial phase is a test stimulation period where the patient is allowed to evaluate whether the therapy is effective. Typically, there are two techniques that are utilized to perform the test stimulation. The first is an office-based procedure termed the Percutaneous Nerve Evaluation (PNE) and the other is a staged trial.

In the PNE, a foramen needle is typically used first to identify the optimal stimulation location, usually at the S3 level, and to evaluate the integrity of the sacral nerves. Motor and sensory responses are used to verify correct needle placement, as described in Table 1 below. A temporary stimulation lead (a unipolar electrode) is then placed near the sacral nerve under local anesthesia. This procedure can be performed in an office setting without fluoroscopy. The temporary lead is then connected to an external pulse generator (EPG) taped onto the skin of the patient during the trial phase. The stimulation level can be adjusted to provide an optimal comfort level for the particular patient. The patient will monitor his or her voiding for 3 to 7 days to see if there is any symptom improvement. The advantage of the PNE is that it is an incision free procedure that can be performed in the physician's office using local anesthesia. The disadvantage is that the temporary lead is not securely anchored in place and has the propensity to migrate away from the nerve with physical activity and thereby cause failure of the therapy. If a patient fails this trial test, the physician may still recommend the staged trial as described below. If PNE trial is positive, the temporary trial lead is removed and a permanent quadri-polar tined lead is implanted along with an IPG under general anesthesia.

A staged trial involves the implantation of the permanent quadri-polar tined stimulation lead into the patient from the start. It also requires the use of a foramen needle to identify the nerve and optimal stimulation location. The lead is implanted near the S3 sacral nerve and is connected to an EPG via a lead extension. This procedure is performed under fluoroscopic guidance in an operating room and under local or general anesthesia. The EPG is adjusted to provide an optimal comfort level for the patient and the patient monitors his or her voiding for up to two weeks. If the patient obtains meaningful symptom improvement, he or she is considered a suitable candidate for permanent implantation of the IPG under general anesthesia, typically in the upper buttock area, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3A.

TABLE 1 Motor and Sensory Responses of SNM at Different Sacral Nerve Roots Response Nerve Innervation Pelvic Floor Foot/calf/leg Sensation S2 -Primary somatic “Clamp” * of anal Leg/hip rotation, Contraction of base contributor of pudendal sphincter plantar flexion of entire of penis, vagina nerve for external foot, contraction of calf sphincter, leg, foot S3 - Virtually all pelvic “bellows” ** of Plantar flexion of great Pulling in rectum, autonomic functions and perineum toe, occasionally other extending forward striated mucle (levetor toes to scrotum or labia ani) S4 - Pelvic autonomic “bellows” ** No lower extremity Pulling in rectum and somatic; No leg pr motor stimulation only foot * Clamp: contraction of anal sphincter and, in males, retraction of base of penis. Move buttocks aside and look for anterior/posterior shortening of the perineal structures. ** Bellows: lifting and dropping of pelvic floor. Look for deepening and flattening of buttock groove

In regard to measuring outcomes for SNM treatment of voiding dysfunction, the voiding dysfunction indications (e.g., urge incontinence, urgency-frequency, and non-obstructive urinary retention) are evaluated by unique primary voiding diary variables. The therapy outcomes are measured using these same variables. SNM therapy is considered successful if a minimum of 50% improvement occurs in any of primary voiding diary variables compared with the baseline. For urge incontinence patients, these voiding diary variables may include: number of leaking episodes per day, number of heavy leaking episodes per day, and number of pads used per day. For patients with urgency-frequency, primary voiding diary variables may include: number of voids per day, volume voided per void and degree of urgency experienced before each void. For patients with retention, primary voiding diary variables may include: catheterized volume per catheterization and number of catheterizations per day. For fecal incontinence patients, the outcome measures captured by the voiding diary include: number of leaking episodes per week, number of leaking days per week, and degree of urgency experienced before each leak.

The mechanism of action of SNM is multifactorial and impacts the neuro-axis at several different levels. In patients with OAB, it is believed that pelvic and/or pudendal afferents can activate the inhibitory reflexes that promote bladder storage by inhibiting the afferent limb of an abnormal voiding reflex. This blocks input to the pontine micturition center, thereby restricting involuntary detrusor contractions without interfering with normal voiding patterns. For patients with urinary retention, SNM is believed to activate the pelvic and/or pudendal nerve afferents originating from the pelvic organs into the spinal cord. At the level of the spinal cord, these afferents may turn on voiding reflexes by suppressing exaggerated guarding reflexes, thus relieving symptoms of patients with urinary retention so normal voiding can be facilitated. In patients with fecal incontinence, it is hypothesized that SNM stimulates pelvic and/or pudendal afferent somatic fibers that inhibit colonic propulsive activity and activates the internal anal sphincter, which in turn improves the symptoms of fecal incontinence patients.

The present invention relates to a system adapted to deliver neurostimulation to targeted nerve tissues in a manner that results in partial or complete activation of the target nerve fibers, causes the augmentation or inhibition of neural activity in nerves, potentially the same or different than the stimulation target, that control the organs and structures associated with bladder and bowel function.

B. EMG Assisted Neurostimulation Lead Placement and Programming

While conventional sacral nerve stimulation approaches have shown efficacy in treatment of bladder and bowel related dysfunctions, there exists a need to improve positioning of the neurostimulation leads and consistency between the trial and permanent implantation positions of the lead as well as to improve methods of programming. Neurostimulation relies on consistently delivering therapeutic stimulation from a pulse generator, via one or more neurostimulation electrodes, to particular nerves or targeted regions. The neurostimulation electrodes are provided on a distal end of an implantable lead that can be advanced through a tunnel formed in patient tissue. Implantable neurostimulation systems provide patients with great freedom and mobility, but it may be easier to adjust the neurostimulation electrodes of such systems before they are surgically implanted. It is desirable for the physician to confirm that the patient has desired motor and/or sensory responses before implanting an IPG. For at least some treatments (including treatments of at least some forms of urinary and/or fecal dysfunction), demonstrating appropriate motor responses may be highly beneficial for accurate and objective lead placement while the sensory response may not be required or not available (e.g., patient is under general anesthesia).

Placement and calibration of the neurostimulation electrodes and implantable leads sufficiently close to specific nerves can be beneficial for the efficacy of treatment. Accordingly, aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to aiding and refining the accuracy and precision of neurostimulation electrode placement. Further, aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to aiding and refining protocols for setting therapeutic treatment signal parameters for a stimulation program implemented through implanted neurostimulation electrodes.

Prior to implantation of the permanent device, patients may undergo an initial testing phase to estimate potential response to treatment. As discussed above, PNE may be done under local anesthesia, using a test needle to identify the appropriate sacral nerve(s) according to a subjective sensory response by the patient. Other testing procedures can involve a two-stage surgical procedure, where a quadri-polar tined lead is implanted for a testing phase (Stage 1) to determine if patients show a sufficient reduction in symptom frequency, and if appropriate, proceeding to the permanent surgical implantation of a neuromodulation device. For testing phases and permanent implantation, determining the location of lead placement can be dependent on subjective qualitative analysis by either or both of a patient or a physician.

In exemplary embodiments, determination of whether or not an implantable lead and neurostimulation electrode is located in a desired or correct location can be accomplished through use of electromyography (“EMG”), also known as surface electromyography. EMG, is a technique that uses an EMG system or module to evaluate and record electrical activity produced by muscles, producing a record called an electromyogram. EMG detects the electrical potential generated by muscle cells when those cells are electrically or neurologically activated. The signals can be analyzed to detect activation level or recruitment order. EMG can be performed through the skin surface of a patient, intramuscularly or through electrodes disposed within a patient near target muscles, or using a combination of external and internal structures. When a muscle or nerve is stimulated by an electrode, EMG can be used to determine if the related muscle is activated, (i.e. whether the muscle fully contracts, partially contracts, or does not contract) in response to the stimulus. Accordingly, the degree of activation of a muscle can indicate whether an implantable lead or neurostimulation electrode is located in the desired or correct location on a patient. Further, the degree of activation of a muscle can indicate whether a neurostimulation electrode is providing a stimulus of sufficient strength, amplitude, frequency, or duration to affect a treatment regimen on a patient. Thus, use of EMG provides an objective and quantitative means by which to standardize placement of implantable leads and neurostimulation electrodes, reducing the subjective assessment of patient sensory responses.

In some approaches, positional titration procedures may optionally be based in part on a paresthesia or pain-based subjective response from a patient. In contrast, EMG triggers a measurable and discrete muscular reaction. As the efficacy of treatment often relies on precise placement of the neurostimulation electrodes at target tissue locations and the consistent, repeatable delivery of neurostimulation therapy, using an objective EMG measurement can substantially improve the utility and success of SNM treatment. The measurable muscular reaction can be a partial or a complete muscular contraction, including a response below the triggering of an observable motor response, such as those shown in Table 1, depending on the stimulation of the target muscle. In addition, by utilizing a trial system that allows the neurostimulation lead to remain implanted for use in the permanently implanted system, the efficacy and outcome of the permanently implanted system is more consistent with the results of the trial period, which moreover leads to improved patient outcomes.

C. Example System Embodiments

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates example nerve stimulation system setups, which includes a setup for use in a trial neurostimulation system 200 and a setup for use in a permanently implanted neurostimulation system 100, in accordance with aspects of the invention. The EPG 80 and IPG 50 are each compatible with and wirelessly communicate with a clinician programmer (CP) 60 and a patient remote 70, which are used in positioning and/or programming the trial neurostimulation system 200 and/or permanently implanted system 100 after a successful trial. As discussed above, the system utilizes a cable set and EMG sensor patches in the trial system setup 200 to facilitate lead placement and neurostimulation programming. CP can include specialized software, specialized hardware, and/or both, to aid in lead placement, programming, re-programming, stimulation control, and/or parameter setting. In addition, each of the IPG and the EPG allows the patient at least some control over stimulation (e.g., initiating a pre-set program, increasing or decreasing stimulation), and/or to monitor battery status with the patient remote. This approach also allows for an almost seamless transition between the trial system and the permanent system.

In one aspect, the CP 60 is used by a physician to adjust the settings of the EPG and/or IPG while the lead is implanted within the patient. The CP can be a tablet computer used by the clinician to program the IPG, or to control the EPG during the trial period. The CP can also include capability to record stimulation-induced electromyograms to facilitate lead placement and programming. The patient remote 70 can allow the patient to turn the stimulation on or off, or to vary stimulation from the IPG while implanted, or from the EPG during the trial phase.

In another aspect, the CP 60 has a control unit which can include a microprocessor and specialized computer-code instructions for implementing methods and systems for use by a physician in deploying the treatment system and setting up treatment parameters. The CP generally includes a graphical user interface, an EMG module, an EMG input that can couple to an EMG output stimulation cable, an EMG stimulation signal generator, and a stimulation power source. The stimulation cable can further be configured to couple to any or all of an access device (e.g., a foramen needle), a treatment lead of the system, or the like. The EMG input may be configured to be coupled with one or more sensory patch electrode(s) for attachment to the skin of the patient adjacent a muscle (e.g., a muscle innervated-by a target nerve). Other connectors of the CP may be configured for coupling with an electrical ground or ground patch, an electrical pulse generator (e.g., an EPG or an IPG), or the like. As noted above, the CP can include a module with hardware and computer-code to execute EMG analysis, where the module can be a component of the control unit microprocessor, a pre-processing unit coupled to or in-line with the stimulation and/or sensory cables, or the like.

In other aspects, the CP 60 allows the clinician to read the impedance of each electrode contact whenever the lead is connected to an EPG, an IPG or a CP to ensure reliable connection is made and the lead is intact. This may be used as an initial step in both positioning the lead and in programming the leads to ensure the electrodes are properly functioning. The CP 60 is also able to save and display previous (e.g., up to the last four) programs that were used by a patient to help facilitate re-programming. In some embodiments, the CP 60 further includes a USB port for saving reports to a USB drive and a charging port. The CP is configured to operate in combination with an EPG when placing leads in a patient body as well with the IPG during programming. The CP can be electronically coupled to the EPG during test simulation through a specialized cable set or through wireless communication, thereby allowing the CP to configure, modify, or otherwise program the electrodes on the leads connected to the EPG. The CP may also include physical on/off buttons to turn the CP on and off and/or to turn stimulation on and off.

The electrical pulses generated by the EPG and IPG are delivered to one or more targeted nerves via one or more neurostimulation electrodes at or near a distal end of each of one or more leads. The leads can have a variety of shapes, can be a variety of sizes, and can be made from a variety of materials, which size, shape, and materials can be tailored to the specific treatment application. While in this embodiment, the lead is of a suitable size and length to extend from the IPG and through one of the foramen of the sacrum to a targeted sacral nerve, in various other applications, the leads may be, for example, implanted in a peripheral portion of the patient's body, such as in the arms or legs, and can be configured to deliver electrical pulses to the peripheral nerve such as may be used to relieve chronic pain. It is appreciated that the leads and/or the stimulation programs may vary according to the nerves being targeted.

FIGS. 2A-2C show diagrams of various nerve structures of a patient, which may be used in neurostimulation treatments, in accordance with aspects of the invention. FIG. 2A shows the different sections of the spinal cord and the corresponding nerves within each section. The spinal cord is a long, thin bundle of nerves and support cells that extend from the brainstem along the cervical cord, through the thoracic cord and to the space between the first and second lumbar vertebra in the lumbar cord. Upon exiting the spinal cord, the nerve fibers split into multiple branches that innervate various muscles and organs transmitting impulses of sensation and control between the brain and the organs and muscles. Since certain nerves may include branches that innervate certain organs, such as the bladder, and branches that innervate certain muscles of the leg and foot, stimulation of the nerve at or near the nerve root near the spinal cord can stimulate the nerve branch that innervate the targeted organ, which may also result in muscle responses associated with the stimulation of the other nerve branch. Thus, by monitoring for certain muscle responses, such as those in Table 1, either visually, through the use of EMG as described herein or both, the physician can determine whether the targeted nerve is being stimulated. While stimulation at a certain level may evoke robust muscle responses visible to the naked eye, stimulation at a lower level (e.g. sub-threshold) may still provide activation of the nerve associated with the targeted organ while evoking no corresponding muscle response or a response only visible with EMG. In some embodiments, this low level stimulation also does not cause any paresthesia. This is advantageous as it allows for treatment of the condition by neurostimulation without otherwise causing patient discomfort, pain or undesired muscle responses.

FIG. 2B shows the nerves associated with the lower back section, in the lower lumbar cord region where the nerve bundles exit the spinal cord and travel through the sacral foramens of the sacrum. In some embodiments, the neurostimulation lead is advanced through the foramen until the neurostimulation electrodes are positioned at the anterior sacral nerve root, while the anchoring portion of the lead proximal of the stimulation electrodes are generally disposed dorsal of the sacral foramen through which the lead passes, so as to anchor the lead in position. FIG. 2C shows detail views of the nerves of the lumbosacral trunk and the sacral plexus, in particular, the S1-S5 nerves of the lower sacrum. The S3 sacral nerve is of particular interest for treatment of bladder related dysfunction, and in particular OAB.

FIG. 3A schematically illustrates an example of a fully implanted neurostimulation system 100 adapted for sacral nerve stimulation. Neurostimulation system 100 includes an IPG implanted in a lower back region and connected to a neurostimulation lead extending through the S3 foramen for stimulation of the S3 sacral nerve. The lead is anchored by a tined anchor portion 30 that maintains a position of a set of neurostimulation electrodes 40 along the targeted nerve, which in this example, is the anterior sacral nerve root S3 which innervates the bladder so as to provide therapy for various bladder related dysfunctions. While this embodiment is adapted for sacral nerve stimulation, it is appreciated that similar systems can be used in treating patients with, for example, chronic, severe, refractory neuropathic pain originating from peripheral nerves or various urinary dysfunctions or still further other indications. Implantable neurostimulation systems can be used to either stimulate a target peripheral nerve or the posterior epidural space of the spine.

Properties of the electrical pulses can be controlled via a controller of the implanted pulse generator. In some embodiments, these properties can include, for example, the frequency, amplitude, pattern, duration, or other aspects of the electrical pulses. These properties can include, for example, a voltage, a current, or the like. This control of the electrical pulses can include the creation of one or more electrical pulse programs, plans, or patterns, and in some embodiments, this can include the selection of one or more pre-existing electrical pulse programs, plans, or patterns. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3A, the implantable neurostimulation system 100 includes a controller in the IPG having one or more pulse programs, plans, or patterns that may be pre-programmed or created as discussed above. In some embodiments, these same properties associated with the IPG may be used in an EPG of a partly implanted trial system used before implantation of the permanent neurostimulation system 100.

FIG. 3B shows a schematic illustration of a trial neurostimulation system 200 utilizing an EPG patch 81 adhered to the skin of a patient, particularly to the abdomen of a patient, the EPG 80 being encased within the patch. In one aspect, the lead is hardwired to the EPG, while in another the lead is removably coupled to the EPG through a port or aperture in the top surface of the flexible patch 81. Excess lead can be secured by an additional adherent patch. In one aspect, the EPG patch is disposable such that the lead can be disconnected and used in a permanently implanted system without removing the distal end of the lead from the target location. Alternatively, the entire system can be disposable and replaced with a permanent lead and IPG. When the lead of the trial system is implanted, an EMG obtained via the CP using one or more sensor patches can be used to ensure that the leads are placed at a location proximate to the target nerve or muscle, as discussed previously.

In some embodiments, the trial neurostimulation system utilizes an EPG 80 within an EPG patch 81 that is adhered to the skin of a patient and is coupled to the implanted neurostimulation lead 20 through a lead extension 22, which is coupled with the lead 20 through a connector 21. This extension and connector structure allows the lead to be extended so that the EPG patch can be placed on the abdomen and allows use of a lead having a length suitable for permanent implantation should the trial prove successful. This approach may utilize two percutaneous incisions, the connector provided in the first incision and the lead extensions extending through the second percutaneous incision, there being a short tunneling distance (e.g., about 10 cm) there between. This technique may also minimize movement of an implanted lead during conversion of the trial system to a permanently implanted system.

In one aspect, the EPG unit is wirelessly controlled by a patient remote and/or the CP in a similar or identical manner as the IPG of a permanently implanted system. The physician or patient may alter treatment provided by the EPG through use of such portable remotes or programmers and the treatments delivered are recorded on a memory of the programmer for use in determining a treatment suitable for use in a permanently implanted system. The CP can be used in lead placement, programming and/or stimulation control in each of the trial and permanent nerve stimulation systems. In addition, each nerve stimulation system allows the patient to control stimulation or monitor battery status with the patient remote. This configuration is advantageous as it allows for an almost seamless transition between the trial system and the permanent system. From the patient's viewpoint, the systems will operate in the same manner and be controlled in the same manner, such that the patient's subjective experience in using the trial system more closely matches what would be experienced in using the permanently implanted system. Thus, this configuration reduces any uncertainties the patient may have as to how the system will operate and be controlled such that the patient will be more likely to convert a trial system to a permanent system.

As shown in the detailed view of FIG. 3B, the EPG 80 is encased within a flexible laminated patch 81, which include an aperture or port through which the EPG 80 is connected to the lead extension 22. The patch may further an “on/off” button 83 with a molded tactile detail to allow the patient to turn the EPG on and/or off through the outside surface of the adherent patch 81. The underside of the patch 81 is covered with a skin-compatible adhesive 82 for continuous adhesion to a patient for the duration of the trial period. For example, a breathable strip having skin-compatible adhesive 82 would allow the EPG 80 to remain attached to the patient continuously during the trial, which may last over a week, typically two weeks to four weeks, or even longer.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example neurostimulation system 100 that is fully implantable and adapted for sacral nerve stimulation treatment. The implantable system 100 includes an IPG 10 that is coupled to a neurostimulation lead 20 that includes a group of neurostimulation electrodes 40 at a distal end of the lead. The lead includes a lead anchor portion 30 with a series of tines extending radially outward so as to anchor the lead and maintain a position of the neurostimulation lead 20 after implantation. The lead 20 may further include one or more radiopaque markers 25 to assist in locating and positioning the lead using visualization techniques such as fluoroscopy. In some embodiments, the IPG provides monopolar or bipolar electrical pulses that are delivered to the targeted nerves through one or more neurostimulation electrodes. In sacral nerve stimulation, the lead is typically implanted through the S3 foramen as described herein.

In one aspect, the IPG is rechargeable wirelessly through conductive coupling by use of a charging device 50 (CD), which is a portable device powered by a rechargeable battery to allow patient mobility while charging. The CD is used for transcutaneous charging of the IPG through RF induction. The CD can either be patched to the patient's skin using an adhesive or can be held in place using a belt 53 or by an adhesive patch 52, such as shown in the schematic of FIG. 1. The CD may be charged by plugging the CD directly into an outlet or by placing the CD in a charging dock or station 51 that connects to an AC wall outlet or other power source.

The system may further include a patient remote 70 and CP 60, each configured to wirelessly communicate with the implanted IPG, or with the EPG during a trial, as shown in the schematic of the nerve stimulation system in FIG. 1. The CP 60 may be a tablet computer used by the clinician to program the IPG and the EPG. The device also has the capability to record stimulation-induced electromyograms (EMGs) to facilitate lead placement, programming, and/or re-programming. The patient remote may be a battery-operated, portable device that utilizes radio-frequency (RF) signals to communicate with the EPG and IPG and allows the patient to adjust the stimulation levels, check the status of the IPG battery level, and/or to turn the stimulation on or off.

FIG. 5A-5C show detail views of the IPG and its internal components. In some embodiments, the pulse generator can generate one or more non-ablative electrical pulses that are delivered to a nerve to control pain or cause some other desired effect, for example to inhibit, prevent, or disrupt neural activity for the treatment of OAB or bladder related dysfunction. In some applications, the pulses having a pulse amplitude in a range between 0 mA to 1,000 mA, 0 mA to 100 mA, 0 mA to 50 mA, 0 mA to 25 mA, and/or any other or intermediate range of amplitudes may be used. One or more of the pulse generators can include a processor and/or memory adapted to provide instructions to and receive information from the other components of the implantable neurostimulation system. The processor can include a microprocessor, such as a commercially available microprocessor from Intel® or Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.®, or the like. An IPG may include an energy storage feature, such as one or more capacitors, one or more batteries, and typically includes a wireless charging unit.

One or more properties of the electrical pulses can be controlled via a controller of the IPG or EPG. In some embodiments, these properties can include, for example, the frequency, amplitude, pattern, duration, or other aspects of the timing and magnitude of the electrical pulses. These properties can further include, for example, a voltage, a current, or the like. This control of the electrical pulses can include the creation of one or more electrical pulse programs, plans, or patterns, and in some embodiments, this can include the selection of one or more pre-existing electrical pulse programs, plans, or patterns. In one aspect, the IPG 100 includes a controller having one or more pulse programs, plans, or patterns that may be created and/or pre-programmed. In some embodiments, the IPG can be programmed to vary stimulation parameters including pulse amplitude in a range from 0 mA to 10 mA, pulse width in a range from 50 μs to 500 μs, pulse frequency in a range from 5 Hz to 250 Hz, stimulation modes (e.g., continuous or cycling), and electrode configuration (e.g., anode, cathode, or off), to achieve the optimal therapeutic outcome specific to the patient. In particular, this allows for an optimal setting to be determined for each patient even though each parameter may vary from person to person.

As shown in FIGS. 5A-5B, the IPG may include a header portion 11 at one end and a ceramic portion 14 at the opposite end. The header portion 11 houses a feed through assembly 12 and connector stack 13, while the ceramic case portion 14 houses an antennae assembly 16 to facilitate wireless communication with the clinician program, the patient remote, and/or a charging coil to facilitate wireless charging with the CD. The remainder of the IPG is covered with a titanium case portion 17, which encases the printed circuit board, memory and controller components that facilitate the electrical pulse programs described above. In the example shown in FIG. 5C, the header portion of the IPG includes a four-pin feed-through assembly 12 that couples with the connector stack 13 in which the proximal end of the lead is coupled. The four pins correspond to the four electrodes of the neurostimulation lead. In some embodiments, a Balseal® connector block is electrically connected to four platinum/iridium alloy feed-through pins which are brazed to an alumina ceramic insulator plate along with a titanium alloy flange. This feed-through assembly is laser seam welded to a titanium-ceramic brazed case to form a complete hermetic housing for the electronics.

In some embodiment, such as that shown in FIG. 5A, the ceramic and titanium brazed case is utilized on one end of the IPG where the ferrite coil and PCB antenna assemblies are positioned. A reliable hermetic seal is provided via a ceramic-to-metal brazing technique. The zirconia ceramic may comprise a 3Y-TZP (3 mol percent Yttria-stabilized tetragonal Zirconia Polycrystals) ceramic, which has a high flexural strength and impact resistance and has been commercially utilized in a number of implantable medical technologies. It will be appreciated, however, that other ceramics or other suitable materials may be used for construction of the IPG.

In one aspect, utilization of ceramic material provides an efficient, radio-frequency-transparent window for wireless communication with the external patient remote and clinician's programmer as the communication antenna is housed inside the hermetic ceramic case. This ceramic window has further facilitated miniaturization of the implant while maintaining an efficient, radio-frequency-transparent window for long term and reliable wireless communication between the IPG and external controllers, such as the patient remote and CP. The IPG's wireless communication is generally stable over the lifetime of the device, unlike prior art products where the communication antenna is placed in the header outside the hermetic case. The communication reliability of such prior art devices tends to degrade due to the change in dielectric constant of the header material in the human body over time.

In another aspect, the ferrite core is part of the charging coil assembly 15, shown in FIG. 5B, which is positioned inside the ceramic case 14. The ferrite core concentrates the magnetic field flux through the ceramic case as opposed to the metallic case portion 17. This configuration maximizes coupling efficiency, which reduces the required magnetic field and in turn reduces device heating during charging. In particular, because the magnetic field flux is oriented in a direction perpendicular to the smallest metallic cross section area, heating during charging is minimized. This configuration also allows the IPG to be effectively charged at depth of 3 cm with the CD, when positioned on a skin surface of the patient near the IPG and reduces re-charging time.

In one aspect, the CP 60 is used to program the IPG/EPG according to various stimulation modes, which can be determined by the CP or selected by the physician using the CP. In some embodiments, the IPG/EPG may be configured with two stimulation modes: continuous mode and cycling mode. The cycling mode saves energy in comparison to the continuous mode, thereby extending the recharge interval of the battery and lifetime of the device. The cycling mode may also help reduce the risk of neural adaptation for some patients. Neural adaptation is a change over time in the responsiveness of the neural system to a constant stimulus. Thus, cycling mode may also mitigate neural adaptation so to provide longer-term therapeutic benefit. FIG. 6A shows an example of stimulation in a cycling mode, in which the duty cycle is the stimulation on time over the stimulation-on time plus the stimulation-off time. In some embodiments, the IPG/EPG is configured with a ramping feature, such as shown in the example of FIG. 6B. In these embodiments, the stimulation signal is ramped up and/or down between the stimulation-on and stimulation-off levels. This feature helps reduce the sudden “jolting” or “shocking” sensation that some patients might experience when the stimulation is initially turned on or at the cycle-on phase during the cycling mode. This feature is particularly of benefit for patients who need relative high stimulation settings and/or for patients who are sensitive to electrical stimulation.

To activate an axon of a nerve fiber, one needs to apply an electric field outside of the axon to create a voltage gradient across its membrane. This can be achieved by pumping charge between the electrodes of a stimulator. Action potentials, which transmit information through the nervous system, are generated when the outside of the nerve is depolarized to a certain threshold, which is determined by the amount of current delivered. To generate continuous action potentials in the axon, this extracellular gradient threshold needs to be reached with the delivery of each stimulation pulse.

In conventional systems, a constant voltage power source is able to maintain the output voltage of the electrodes, so that enough current is delivered to activate the axon at initial implantation. However, during the first several weeks following implantation, tissue encapsulation around electrodes occurs, which results in an impedance (tissue resistance) increase. According to the ohms' law (I=V/R where I is the current, V the voltage and R the tissue impedance of the electrode pair), current delivered by a constant voltage stimulator will therefore decrease, generating a smaller gradient around the nerve. When the impedance reaches a certain value, extracellular depolarization will go down below the threshold value, so that no more action potential can be generated in the axon. Patients will need to adjust the voltage of their system to re-adjust the current, and restore the efficacy of the therapy.

In contrast, embodiments of the present invention utilize a constant current power source. In one aspect, the system uses feedback to adjust the voltage in such a way that the current is maintained regardless of what happens to the impedance (until one hits the compliance limit of the device), so that the gradient field around the nerve is maintained overtime. Using a constant current stimulator keeps delivering the same current that is initially selected regardless the impedance change, for a maintained therapeutic efficacy.

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a block diagram of the configuration of the CP 60 and associated interfaces and internal components. As described above, CP 60 is typically a tablet computer with software that runs on a standard operating system. The CP 60 includes a communication module, a stimulation module and an EMG sensing module. The communication module communicates with the IPG and/or EPG in the medical implant communication service frequency band for programming the IPG and/or EPG. While this configuration reflects a portable user interface display device, such as a tablet computer, it is appreciated that the CP may be incorporated into various other types of computing devices, such as a laptop, desktop computer, or a standalone terminal for use in a medical facility.

D. Workflows for Lead Placement, Programming and Reprogramming with CP

FIGS. 8A1-8A3 and 8B illustrate schematics of the workflow used in lead placement and programming of the neurostimulation system using a CP with EMG assist, in accordance with aspects of the invention. FIGS. 8A1-8A3 schematically illustrates a detailed overview of the use of a CP having a graphical user interface for lead placement and subsequent programming, which may include initial programming and reprogramming. FIG. 8B illustrates a CP graphical user interface screen representation schematic of workflow that includes the various setups and connections associated with each step.

III. Neurostimulation Lead Placement with EMG

Placement of the neurostimulation lead requires localization of the targeted nerve and subsequent positioning of the neurostimulation lead at the target location. Various ancillary components are used for localization of the target nerve and subsequent implantation of the lead and IPG. Such components include a foramen needle and a stylet, a directional guide, dilator and an introducer sheath, straight or curved tip stylet (inserted in tined leads), tunneling tools (a bendable tunneling rod with sharp tip on one end and a handle on the other with a transparent tubing over the tunneling rod) and often an over-the-shelf torque wrench. The foramen needle and stylet are used for locating the correct sacral foramen for implant lead and subsequent acute stimulation testing. The physician locates the targeted nerve by inserting a foramen needle and energizing a portion of needle until a neuromuscular response is observed that is indicative of neurostimulation in the target area (see Table 1 above). After the target nerve is successfully located, the direction guide, introducer and dilator are used to prepare a path along which the lead can be implanted. The directional guide is a metal rod that holds the position in the sacral foramen determined with the foramen needle for subsequent placement of the introducer sheath and dilator. The introducer sheath and dilator is a tool that increases the diameter of the hole through the foramen to allow introduction of the permanent lead. The lead stylet is a stiff wire that is inserted into the lead to increase its stiffness during lead placement and may be configured with a straight or curved tip. The torque wrench is a small wrench used to tighten the set screw that locks the lead into the IPG. The tunneling tool is a stiff, sharp device that creates a subcutaneous tunnel, allowing the lead to be placed along a path under the skin. While such approaches have sufficed for many conventional treatments, such approaches often lack resolution and may result in sub-optimal lead placement, which may unnecessarily complicate subsequent programming and result in unfavorable patient outcomes. Thus, an approach that provides more accurate and robust neural localization while improving ease of use by the physician and the patient.

A. EMG Assisted System Setup for Neural Localization and Lead Placement

In one aspect, the system utilizes EMG to improve the accuracy and resolution of neural localization with the foramen needle as well as to improve consistency and ease of performing each of neural localization and lead placement, as well as subsequent programming of the implanted neurostimulation system. In certain aspects of the invention, the system setups aim to use standard EMG recording techniques to create a unique approach to implanting a lead near the third sacral nerve and subsequent programming of electrical stimulation of the nerve. Such an approach is made feasible by integration of EMG recording, display and analysis with the CP, which is operatively coupled with the neurostimulation lead and used during lead placement and subsequent programming. Another advantageous aspect of this approach is that the use of proportional increases in stimulation amplitude during test stimulation and programming reduces the time required for these activities, as well as improve the ease with which the procedures can be conducted. In addition, recording of motor and sensory responses and stimulation amplitude thresholds directly into the CP during lead placement and conversion of these responses into feedback on the quality of lead placement and programming recommendations. Another advantageous aspect of this EMG assisted approach is that measurement and analysis of only one neuromuscular response, preferably the “big toe response,” can be used as an indicator of appropriate stimulation amplitude for effective treatment during programming of the neurostimulation system. In another aspect, automation of these aspects within the CP can further reduce the duration and complexity of the procedure and improve consistency of outcomes. For example, automation of electrode threshold determinations based on EMG responses can provide rapid feedback during lead placement and to identify optimal programming parameters.

FIG. 9A illustrates a system setup for neural localization and lead placement using EMG response, as described above. As can be seen, several cable sets are connected to the CP 60. The stimulation cable set consists of one stimulation mini-clip 3 and one ground patch 5. It is used with a foramen needle 1 to locate the sacral nerve and verify the integrity of the nerve via test stimulation. Another stimulation cable set with four stimulation channels 2 is used to verify the lead position with a tined stimulation lead 20 during the staged trial. Both cable sets are sterilizable as they will be in the sterile field. A total of five over-the-shelf sensing electrode patches 4 (e.g., two sensing electrode pairs for each sensing spot and one common ground patch) are provided for EMG sensing at two different muscle groups (e.g., perineal musculature and big toe) simultaneously during the lead placement procedure. This provides the clinician with a convenient all-in-one setup via the EMG integrated CP. Typically, only one electrode set (e.g., two sensing electrodes and one ground patch) is needed for detecting an EMG signal on the big toe during an initial electrode configuration and/or re-programming session. Placement of the EMG patches on the patient for detection of an EMG waveform are shown in FIGS. 9C-D, which illustrate patch placement for detection of big toe response and anal bellow response, respectively.

FIG. 9B illustrates example EMG patch/surface electrodes that can be adhered to the skin of the patient to obtain EMG recordings of a desired neuromuscular response. EMG recordings are obtained from a three-electrode configuration that includes a positive reference, a negative reference and a ground, typically each being provided on a surface path adhered to the skin of the patient. Alternatives to surface patches include needle electrodes and anal sponge electrodes. In one aspect, wireless EMG patches may be used to further improve the ease of use and patient comfort. In some embodiments, the EPG can be used as the stimulator within a fully wireless system setup. The EMG sensors are placed on the patient in a manner so as to record neuromuscular responses associated with a desired muscle movement. The key responses indicative of sacral nerve stimulation are the “big toe response” and the “anal bellows.” The big toe response is the plantar flexion of the big toe. By placing the EMG sensor electrode patches on the flexor hallucis brevis (the primary target) or alternatively on the tendon of the flexor halluces longus, such as shown in FIG. 9C, the system can record the EMG of the big toe response. The user may include a test stimulation of the medial plantar nerve to verify placement of big toe EMG electrodes and test nerve conduction. The “anal bellows” response is the tightening of the levators or pulling in of the pelvic floor. By placing the EMG sensor electrode patches on the levator ani muscle (both electrodes on one side) or alternatively on the levator ani muscles (one electrode on each side of the anus), see FIG. 9D, the system can record the EMG of the anal bellows response.

In one aspect, the EMG signal is used to evaluate placement quality and programming quality based on stimulation amplitude to evoke a response. The EMG responses are measured based on one of several approaches for quantifying the compound muscle action potential (CMAP). Referring to the EMG waveform shown in FIG. 9E, the “peak” is the maximum value of the positive peak of the CMAP, “peak-to-peak” is the value from the maximum peak to the minimum peak of the CMAP, the “root mean square (RMS) is defined as the time windowed average of the square root of the raw EMG squared. An example of raw data and the associated root mean square is shown in FIG. 9F. In some embodiments, the user will verify an EMG response by observation of the response. In other embodiments, stimulation automatically increases until an EMG response is observed.

B. Neural Localization with Foramen Needle

In conventional approaches, the foramen needle is positioned in an area adjacent the targeted nerve and energized until the desired muscle response is observed that is indicative of the targeted nerve being stimulated. A lead with multiple electrodes is inserted at approximately the same location as the foramen needle under the assumption that one or more of the electrodes will be in a position suitable for stimulating the targeted nerve. One of the drawbacks associated with this approach is that the position of the lead may differ slightly from the position of the foramen needle. In addition, since the foramen needle identifies a particular point location of the targeted nerve and the neurostimulation electrodes are disposed along a length of the lead, often the lead may be misaligned. For example, after successfully locating the target nerve with a foramen needle and inserting the neurostimulation lead, the lead may intersect the point located with the foramen needle but extend transverse or askew of the target nerve such that neurostimulation electrodes more distal and proximal of the intersecting point do not provide effective neurostimulation of the target nerve when energized, thereby limiting the neurostimulation programs available, which may lead to sub-optimal patient outcomes. Thus, while the foramen needle is effective in locating the target nerve at a particular point, often it does not provide enough resolution to ensure that the neurostimulation lead is properly positioned and aligned with the target nerve along the entire length on which the neurostimulation electrodes are disposed.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, the recorded EMG is used to facilitate neural localization with a foramen needle. Typically, a foramen needle includes a discrete electrode that is stimulated until a desired neuromuscular response is observed. In one aspect, the stimulation level is increased until a desired EMG response (e.g. anal bellows and/or big toe) is recorded, at which point the associated amplitude is recorded as well, typically at a constant current. The user may increase the stimulation level in desired increments or the system may automatically increase the stimulation until the EMG response is recorded.

As shown in FIG. 9G, the graphical user interface display of the CP 60 allows the user to monitor the EMG responses and associated amplitudes. The CP 60 interface includes EMG waveform displays 61 are used to monitor a desired neuromuscular response, an Amplitude display 66 and an Electrode Status Indicator 64, which may include a representation of the foramen needle during neural localization. The waveform displays 61 include an Anal Bellow EMG display 62 and a Big Toe EMG displays 63. The amplitude in conjunction with the recorded EMG response can be used to identify when the electrode of the foramen needle is at the targeted nerve. An amplitude greater than a desired range may indicate that the location of the electrode is marginal or unsuitable for use as a cathode in delivering a neurostimulation treatment.

In some embodiments, the display provides feedback to the user (e.g. color coding) as to whether the foramen needle is at the targeted nerve based on the EMG and amplitude measurements. For example, the tip of the foramen representation may be green to indicate a “good” position: (<2 mA); yellow may indicate an “ok” position (2-4 mA) and red may indicate a “bad” position (>4 mA). In some embodiments, the system is configured such that amplitude adjustment is performed in auto-adjusting increments. In one example, from 0-1 mA, step-size is 0.05 mA; from 1-2 mA, step-size is 0.1 mA; from 2 mA-3 mA, step-size is 0.2 mA; and from 2 mA+, step-size is 0.25 mA. In some embodiments, the system may include an option to turn off auto-adjusting increments and use fixed increments, such as fixed increments of 0.05 or 0.1 mA.

C. Lead Placement with EMG

After neural localization is complete, the neurostimulation lead is advanced to the target location identified during neural localization. Typically, a neurostimulation lead include multiple electrodes along a distal portion of the lead, as can be seen in FIG. 4, such that there are various differing positions along which the lead can be placed at or near the target location. For example, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 12A-12B, the lead can be advanced “too deep” beyond the targeted nerve, can be placed “too shallow” or can be tilted or angled such that the distal or proximal electrodes are spaced too far away from the target nerve. The neurostimulation lead can be re-positioned along various differing paths within the three-dimensional space of the implantation site to an optimal location and alignment by advancing or retracting the lead along the insertion axis and/or steering the lead in a lateral direction from the insertion axis as needed. While it is desirable for all four electrodes to be in an optimal location, three out of four electrodes being in acceptable proximity to the target nerve to deliver neurostimulation therapy is generally acceptable. Determining an actual location of the lead, however, can be difficult and time-consuming using conventional methods of manually adjusting the stimulation on each electrode separately and relying on observation of the muscle responses after each stimulation. Fluoroscopy is an often used tool to verify lead position against anatomical landmarks, however, this approach is not very effective since nerves are not visible under fluoroscopy.

In one aspect, the system provides improved lead placement by determining lead position of a multi-electrode lead relative the target nerve with EMG using an electrode sweeping process. This approach allows for fine tuning of lead placement. This feature utilizes a four-channel connecting cable so as to allow the system to energize each electrode in rapid succession without requiring separate attachment and detachment on each electrode with a J-clip or alligator slip, such as is used in convention methods. This aspect is advantageous since utilization of a J-clip or alligator clip to make contacts to tightly pitched electrode is difficult and time consuming and could potentially result in movement of the lead during testing.

In the sweeping process, the system identifies a principal electrode. This may be a default selection by the system or selected by the physician using the CP. The stimulation of the principal electrode is adjusted until an adequate motor response with a maximum amplitude CMAP is obtained at which point the stimulation level or amplitude is recorded. The system then sweeps through all the remaining electrodes of the lead with the same stimulation level and records the EMG responses from each electrode. Typically, the sweeping process is performed rapidly. For example each contact can be stimulated individually at the same stimulation level for 1 second such that the entire sweeping cycle can be conducted in about 4-5 seconds for a four-electrode lead. The system can determine responses for each electrode that can be used to indicate the relative distances of each electrode from the target nerve, which may also be recorded for subsequent use in programming of the EPG or IPG. There are several options as to how this sweeping process can be used to facilitate fine tuning of lead placement, including the following two options.

Option 1:

In one approach, the EMG response value for each electrode can be indicated on a graphical user interface display of the clinician programmer. For example, the response value can be indicated by color coding the electrodes on the display (see FIG. 14B) or by bars or boxes displayed next to each electrode on the Electrode Status Indicator 64 (see FIG. 15A). These indicators readily communicate the robustness of the EMG response achieved at each electrode to the clinician. In one aspect, each electrode may be assigned an R-value, where the R-value is a unit-less number, derived from each electrode's EMG peak CMAP amplitude recorded during the sweeping process, and normalized relative to that of the principal electrode selected by the clinician. In some embodiments, an R-value>0.5 is deemed a “good” location (e.g. color coded green; R-value of 1 or higher is preferable); an electrode with an R-value that is 0.25<r<0.5 is deemed “not ideal” (e.g. color coded yellow); and an electrode with an R-value that is r<0.25 is deemed not acceptable (e.g. color coded red).

Option 2:

In another approach, the response value is illustrated in terms of the distance to the target nerve determined based on the relative response value of each electrode. In one aspect, the R-values may be converted to relative distance which allows for ready interpretation of a relative position of the electrode to the target nerve. Examples of these R-value and distance curves in regard to differing positions of the leads are described in FIGS. 10-13F as follows.

FIG. 10 illustrates initial placement of the neurostimulation lead 20 along the path, the lead 20 including four neurostimulation electrodes 40, electrode #0-3, from electrode #0, the distal most electrode to electrode #3, the proximal most electrode. In one aspect, the “optimal lead position” for neurostimulation treatment is one in which each of the neurostimulation electrodes 40 are adjacent the targeted nerve (e.g. S3 sacral nerve) along the electrode portion 40. If the lead is not advance far enough, the lead position is “too shallow” such that only the more proximal electrodes (e.g. 0, 1) are adjacent the targeted nerve. If the lead is advanced too far, the lead position is “too deep” such that only the more proximal electrodes (e.g. 2, 3) are adjacent the targeted nerve and the more distal electrodes have been advanced beyond the target location.

The axial position of the lead relative the target nerve can be reflected using the R-values for each electrode obtained during sweeping. If the lead is too shallow, the R-value curves obtained may resemble FIG. 11A if the R-values were keyed off of electrode #3, the most proximal electrode. This curve is converted to the distance curve shown in FIG. 11B, which indicates that electrodes #3 and #2 are unacceptably far from the target nerve. In response to this curve, in some cases, combined with fluoroscopy images (showing the relative position of lead and anatomic landmarks), the physician may determine and/or the system may suggest to the physician, such as by indicator on the CP, to insert the lead deeper. The sweeping process can be repeated and new R-value and distance curves obtained until distance curves indicate a more optimal position of the lead, such as that shown in FIG. 11C for example. If the lead is positioned “too deep”, the R-value curves obtained may resemble that in FIG. 11D if the R-values were keyed off of electrode #3. The R-value curve converts to the distance curve shown in FIG. 11E, which indicates that electrodes #0 and #1 are unacceptably far from the target nerve. In response to this curve, in some cases, combined with fluoroscopy images (showing the relative position of lead and anatomic landmarks), the physician may determine and/or the system may suggest to the physician, such as by indicator on the CP, to pull the lead back. The sweeping process can then be repeated and new R-value and distance curves obtained until distance curves indicate a more optimal position of the lead, such as that shown in FIG. 11F for example.

If the lead is too shallow, the R-value curves obtained may resemble FIG. 11G if the R-values were keyed off of electrode #0, the most distal electrode. This curve is converted to the distance curve shown in FIG. 11H, which indicates that electrodes #3 and #2 are unacceptably far from the target nerve. In response to this curve, in some cases, combined with fluoroscopy images (showing the relative position of lead and anatomic landmarks), the physician may determine and/or the system may suggest to the physician, such as by indicator on the CP, to insert the lead deeper. The sweeping process can be repeated and new R-value and distance curves obtained until distance curves indicate a more optimal position of the lead, such as that shown in FIG. 11I for example. If the lead is positioned “too deep”, the R-value curves obtained may resemble that in FIG. 11J if the R-values were keyed off of electrode #0. The R-value curve converts to the distance curve shown in FIG. 11K, which indicates that electrodes #2 and #3 are unacceptably close from the target nerve. In response to this curve, in some cases, combined with fluoroscopy images (showing the relative position of lead and anatomic landmarks), the physician may determine and/or the system may suggest to the physician, such as by indicator on the CP, to pull the lead back. The sweeping process can then be repeated and new R-value and distance curves obtained until distance curves indicate a more optimal position of the lead, such as that shown in FIG. 11L for example. Generally, the shape of the curves FIGS. 11A-L provide a visual representation that aid in optimal lead placement. Optimal lead placement comprises R-vales in a similar range and/or robust EMG responses at reasonable stimulation amplitudes. For example, similar R-values but low EMG responses at high stimulation amplitudes alert the clinician that the lead needs to be re-positioned closer to the target nerve region. The combination of R-values, trial and error, and fluoroscopic imaging aid in optimal lead positioning, such as axial and/or lateral adjustments of the lead.

In another aspect, the lateral displacement of the lead relative the target nerve due to tilting or angling can be reflected using the R-values obtained during the sweeping process. For example, FIG. 12A illustrates a lead 20 in a position in which the distal end is skewed away from the targeted nerve, the S3 sacral nerve, and FIG. 12B illustrates a lead 20 in which the distal electrode portion is “tilted in” toward the target nerve. In the scenario shown in FIG. 12A, if the electrode measurements are keyed off electrode #3, the most proximal electrode, the R-value curves obtained may resemble that shown in FIG. 13A. This R-value curve converts to the distance curve shown in FIG. 13B, which indicates that electrode #0 is laterally displaced too far from the target nerve. In response to this curve, in combination with fluoroscopy information, the physician may determine and/or the system can provide an indicator of a suggestion to steer the distal portion of the lead nearer to the targeted nerve. The sweeping process is repeated and new R-values and distance curves obtained and the process is repeated until the curves resemble those shown in FIG. 13C, which is more indicative of an optimum alignment in which each of the electrodes 0-4 is suitably near the target nerve. In the scenario shown in FIG. 12B, if the electrode measurements are keyed off electrode #0, the most distal electrode, the R-value curve obtained may resemble that shown in FIG. 13D. This curve converts to the distance curve shown in FIG. 13E, which indicates that electrode #3 is laterally displace too far from the target nerve. In response to this curve in combination with fluoroscopy information, the physician may determine and/or the system can provide an indicator of a suggestion to steer the distal portion of the lead nearer to the targeted nerve. The sweeping process is repeated and new R-values and distance curves obtained until the curves resemble those shown in FIG. 13F, which is more indicative of an optimum alignment in which each of the electrodes 0-4 is suitably near the target nerve.

In some embodiments, the R-value and/or distance curves may be determined by the system and used to communicate a suggestion to the clinician, such as with the CP, as to whether the lead should be advanced, retracted or steered. In other embodiments, the R-values and/or the associated curves may be displayed on a graphical user interface of the CP so as to provide a visual indicator of the robustness of each electrode and/or its relative location. In one aspect, a suitable lead position is one in which at least three of the four electrodes are disposed adjacent to and along the targeted nerve. Due to the unique shapes of nerve structures, an optimal lead position in which all electrodes are adjacent the target nerve may not always be readily achievable.

FIGS. 14A-14B illustrate a graphical user interface of the CP 60 during initial lead placement procedure, in accordance with aspects of the invention. The CP 60 interface can includes EMG waveform displays 61 used to monitor a desired neuromuscular response, an Amplitude display 66 and an Electrode Status Indicator 64, which during lead placement includes a representation of the electrode portion of the lead 20. In this procedure, the EMG signal is used to evaluate placement quality based on stimulation amplitude to evoke a response. In some embodiments, the user selects the amplitude and presses “stimulate,” after which each electrode is stimulated for one second. The user determines if the response amplitudes are acceptable. In other embodiments, the system automatically increases until a self-determined level is reached or until a pre-determined EMG response is recorded. In some embodiments, amplitude adjustment can be done in auto-adjusting increments, as described previously. The system may provide a suggestion as to a direction to move the lead if the responses are unacceptable. As shown in FIG. 14A, the responsiveness of each electrode may be graphically represented, for example by bars or boxes to the right of each electrode in the graphical representation of the lead in the Electrode Status Indicator 64. In this example, boxes to right of each contact represent the EMG value (e.g., peak value) for that contact as follows: open square (<50 uV), 1 closed square (50-100 uV), 2 closed squares (100-150 uV), and 3 closed squares (150+uV). A visual indicator that the more distal electrodes (electrode #0,1) have sub-optimal EMG peak values, such as shown in FIG. 14A, may communicate to the clinician that the lead needs to be pulled back proximally until at least three of the four electrodes, preferably all electrodes, have acceptable EMG peak values (e.g. 3 closed square at 150+uV).

FIGS. 15A-15M illustrate the graphical user interface display of the clinician program during another lead placement procedure, in accordance with the invention. The four channel lead and stimulation cables are attached to a CP with a graphical user interface to facilitate lead positioning, electrode characterization and neurostimulation programming. As shown in FIG. 15A, the graphical user interface of the CP 60 includes EMG waveform displays 61, electrode status display 64 and electrode threshold display 66. The EMG waveform display 61 includes two waveform displays, an Anal Bellows EMG display 62, which is coupled with EMG 1 patch, and a Big Toe EMG display 63 coupled with EMG 2 patches adhered on the patient's foot. The electrode status display 64 can be configured to display which electrode is being energized along with a status of the electrode (e.g. suitability for neurostimulation, amplitude threshold within pre-determined limits), and can further allow selection of an electrode by use of an onscreen selector or cursor, as shown in FIG. 15B. The threshold display 66 displays the amplitudes of the selected electrode.

After selection of a principal electrode, the CP performs a test stimulation on the 4-channel lead, which is typically a quick check across all electrodes of the lead (e.g., sweep). In one aspect, the CP records the EMG waveform displays 62 and 63 and the amplitude threshold reading for each selected electrode during this test stimulation. From this test stimulation, the CP 60 may display the suitability of each electrode for neurostimulation in the electrode status display 64 by a color coding or other suitable indicator. For example, in the electrode status display 64 in FIG. 15C, the electrode icons to the left of each electrode can be color coded in differing colors, for example electrodes 0, 1 can be coded as “green,” electrode 2 coded as “orange,” and electrode 3 coded as “red” based on based on its threshold and EMG response, green indicating that the electrode is suitable for use in neurostimulation, orange indicating that the electrode is marginal for use in neurostimulation and red indicating that the electrode is not suitable for use as a cathode in neurostimulation. The electrode may be marginal or unsuitable for use as a cathode based on either or both of the amplitude threshold being too high or based on lack of response in the EMG. FIG. 15C may communicate to the clinician that the lead needs to be advanced distally until at least three of the four electrodes have green indications to denote optimal positioning. After initial lead placement, the amplitude thresholds for each electrode may be determined upon selection of “Define Thresholds” by the user, as shown in FIG. 15D.

D. Electrode Threshold Determination/Validation of Lead Placement

As shown in FIG. 15E, the CP can validate lead placement by testing for stimulation thresholds for each electrode of the four channel lead. The CP increases the stimulation level of the selected electrode and records the magnitude of the EMG response, which appears in the EMG waveform displays 61 on the graphical user interface of the CP 60 (see line on each waveform in FIG. 15F). The stimulation is increased until a pre-determined or desired EMG response threshold is reached, at which point the amplitude is recorded and displayed on the electrode status display 64 next to the subject electrode, as shown in FIG. 15F. Optionally, the response for each electrode is characterized at this time and recorded for use in subsequent programming. The above process is repeated for each electrode. If the threshold amplitude is outside a suitable range of amplitude thresholds, the amplitude may be designated as marginal or unsuitable for use as a cathode in neurostimulation. Designations may be made by visual indicators, such as color coding (e.g. green, orange, red) to indicate suitability of the selected electrode for use as a cathode in a neurostimulation treatment, as shown in FIG. 151, which shows electrodes #0 and #1 as green, electrode #2 as orange and electrode #3 as red.

In one aspect, the CP 60 connects to the EPG/IPG and establishes communication, which may be indicated on the graphical user interface as shown in FIG. 15J. The CP can obtain and review EPG/IPG device info and record the stimulation levels on the EPG/IPG and/or associate the EPG/IPG with the recorded stimulation levels, as shown in FIG. 15K. The graphical user interface may include a Threshold Detail Display 65 that displays a summary of EMG motor responses, as well as recorded sensory responses and amplitude thresholds, as shown in FIG. 15L.

In order to confirm correct lead placement, it is desirable for the physician to confirm that the patient has both adequate motor and sensory responses before transitioning the patient into the staged trial phase or implanting the permanent IPG. However, sensory response is a subjective evaluation and may not always be available, such as when the patient is under general anesthesia. Experiments have shown that demonstrating appropriate motor responses is advantageous for accurate placement, even if sensory responses are available. As discussed above, EMG is a tool which records electrical activity of skeletal muscles. This sensing feature provides an objective criterion for the clinician to determine if the sacral nerve stimulation results in adequate motor response rather than relying solely on subjective sensory criteria. EMG can be used not only to verify optimal lead position during lead placement, but also to provide a standardized and more accurate approach to determine electrode thresholds, which in turn provides quantitative information supporting electrode selection for subsequent determinations of electrode recommendation and programming, discussed in further detail below. Using EMG to verify activation of motor responses can further improve the lead placement performance of less experienced operators and allow such physicians to perform lead placement with confidence and greater accuracy. Advantageously, as the positioning and programming functionality are integrated in many embodiments of the clinician programmer, at least some of the validation thresholds may be correlated to the subsequent stimulation programming, so that (for example) positioning is validated for a particular programming protocol to be used with that patient. Regardless, stimulation programming protocols may employ EMG data obtained during lead positioning or validation to more efficiently derive suitable neurostimulation treatment parameters for that patient.

While the above illustrates an example method of integrating the CP 60 with EMG measurements to assist in placement of the lead it is appreciated that various other aspects and features may be used in accordance with aspects of the invention. The following Table 2 illustrates various features of EMG enhanced lead placement used in a various devices as well as various other alternative features.

TABLE 2 EMG-enhanced Lead Placement CP Device Alternate CP Device Step Use of EMG User feedback Use of EMG User feedback General Patch/surface EMG Visual response, Patch/surface EMG Visual response, recording from including indicator of recording from bellows including indicator of bellows (perineal max response (perineal musculature) max response musculature) and big amplitude and big toe amplitude toe Tool for automating Display individual the determination of CMAP responses stimulation thresholds Visual bar used to and evaluation of lead indicate maximum placement CMAP response Foramen needle EMG responses Color-coded Stimulation increases Color-coded placement displayed during qualitative feedback automatically until an qualitative feedback stimulation of needle placement, EMG response is of needle placement, based on stimulation evoked based on stimulation amplitude Increases rapidly until amplitude Represents relative initial response is seen Represents relative proximity to the Increases slowly until proximity to the sacral sacral nerve maximum response is nerve seen User has option to push button to stop stimulation at any time Initial lead EMG responses Visual feedback that (step is collapsed with (step is collapsed with placement displayed represents relative “contact “contact Calculate maximum distance of each characterization”) characterization”) EMG response for contact from the each contact at a given target nerve, based on stimulation amplitude, relative maximum then normalize value EMG response values as % of response from triggers off reference contact “reference contact” Contact EMG responses Color-coded Stimulation increases Color-coded characterization displayed during qualitative feedback automatically until an qualitative feedback stimulation on contact based on EMG response is on contact based on stimulation amplitude evoked stimulation amplitude and, captured by user Increases rapidly until and the presence/ input, the initial response is seen absence of motor and presence/absence of Increases slowly until sensory response motor and sensory maximum response is (auto-captured) and response seen the presence/absence User has option to of sensory response push button to stop (user input) stimulation at any time The CP stores the threshold data (presence of response, amplitude to evoke) and user can input sensory response IV. Neurostimulation Programming with EMG

After implantation of the lead and placement of the neurostimulation is verified with the CP using EMG, the CP can be used outside the operating room to program the IPG/EPG for delivery of the neurostimulation treatment. Programming may be performed using thresholds obtained from EMG obtained during and/or after lead placement and tested using EMG data associated with at least one neuromuscular response.

A. EMG Assisted Programming Setup

FIGS. 16A-16B illustrate example system setups for EMG assisted programming of the neurostimulation system using the CP, in accordance with aspects of the invention. Typically, this configuration is used for initial programming of the IPG/EMG, although it may also be used in re-programming. Re-programming may also utilized threshold data, EMG data or electrode configuration recommendation data accessed or determined during initial programming without otherwise obtaining new EMG data.

In one aspect, the integration of the EMG recording and display into the clinician tool used for lead placement and programming provides significant advantages over conventional programming methods, including a reduction in time required to determine a program that is efficacious in providing relief for the treated condition. In addition, the use of proportional increases in stimulation amplitude during test programming further reduces the time required for these activities. Recording of motor and sensory responses and stimulation amplitude thresholds directly into the CP during lead placement and conversion of these responses into feedback improves quality of programming recommendations. In another aspect, methods may utilize an EMG recording of a single neuromuscular response (e.g. big toe) to verify the appropriate electrode position and selection and then tune down the amplitude so as to avoid invoking the neuromuscular response during long term therapy stimulation. This aspect may simplify and reduce the time associated with programming of the neurostimulation device as well as improve patient comfort during programming and long term therapy. In another aspect, the CP is configured with an automated threshold determination based on EMG responses to provide rapid feedback during lead placement and to identify optimal programming parameters.

In some embodiments, the system is configured to have EMG sensing capability during re-programming, which is particularly valuable. Stimulation levels during re-programming are typically low to avoid patient discomfort which often results in difficult generation of motor responses. Involuntary muscle movement while the patient is awake may also cause noise that is difficult for the physician to differentiate. In contrast to conventional approaches, EMG allows the clinician to detect motor responses at very low stimulation levels at which the responses are not visible to the naked eye, and help them distinguish a motor response originated by sacral nerve stimulation from involuntary muscle movement.

In some embodiments, the system stores the last four programs used onboard a memory of the IPG/EPG. This is particularly advantageous for reprogramming as it allows a physician to access the most recent programs used in the neurostimulation with an entirely different CP that may not otherwise have access to the programming information. In another aspect, the programming data may be accessible online or on a cloud serve and associated with an unique identifier of a given IPG/EPG such that a different CP could readily access and download programming information as needed for re-programming.

B. Electrode Characterization

In one aspect, during lead placement, the CP 60 can utilize the thresholds previously recorded in characterizing each electrode as to its suitability for use in neurostimulation. In some embodiments, the CP 60 is configured to program the IPG/EPG with an EMG recording from only one muscle, either the anal bellows or the big toe response. Such programming can also utilize a visual observation of the response as well as the recorded maximum response amplitude. In one aspect, the CP 60 performs programming without requiring an anal bellow response observation or EMG waveform measurement of an anal bellows response. In some embodiments, the CP 60 performs programming using an EMG recording from only the big toe response, such as shown in FIGS. 20C-20J in which the graphical user interface of the CP displays only the Big Toe EMG waveform display 63. In an alternative embodiment, the CP 60 can be used to program the EPG/IPG using an EMG from only the anal bellows response.

In one aspect, the EMG recording may be that obtained during lead placement, or more typically, obtained during programming so that the patient can provide subjective sensory response data concurrent with performing a big toe response with a given electrode during testing. The programming may further include visual observations of the big toe response and/or the maximum response amplitude obtained during programming. Allowing programming of the IPG/EPG without requiring an anal bellow response is advantageous since the patient is not under general anesthesia while programming is performed and the anal bellows response can be uncomfortable and painful for the patient. This also allows the CP to receive subjective sensory data from the patient during programming as to any discomfort, paresthesia or pain associated with stimulation of a particular electrode configuration. The following Table 3 shows various features of EMG-enabled neurostimulation programming of the IPG/EPG with the CP as used in various devices as well as alternative features.

In one aspect, the electrodes can be configured to deliver neurostimulation in varying electrode configurations, for example, neurostimulation may be delivered in a mono-polar mode from one or more of the electrodes in various combinations and sequences and/or in a bi-polar mode between two or more electrodes in various combinations and sequences. The suitability of the programming can be determined by use of the electrode characterizations described above determined from EMG recording of at least one neuromuscular response, typically the big toe response, and may further include visual response and amplitude data and subject sensory response data from the patient. From these characterizations, the CP determines multiple electrode configuration recommendations, which may be provided on the graphical user interface of the CP 60 on the Electrode Recommendation display 67 to allow the physician to review and select each recommendation for subsequent testing.

C. Electrode Configuration Recommendations

In one aspect, the system configuration determines multiple electrode configuration recommendations based on using electrode characterization and/or threshold data based in part on EMG recordings of the electrodes and provides the recommendations to the user. FIG. 17 illustrates an example method of determining and providing electrode configuration recommendations implemented with a CP. In such methods, the system first checks the impedance of each electrode using pre-set stimulation parameters and may lock out any electrode with unacceptable impedance (<50 or >3,000 Ohms) from being assigned as an anode or cathode. The system then identifies threshold data associated with each electrode, either from data recorded previously during lead placement or by generating new threshold data. The system tiers the electrodes based on the threshold values (e.g. “good,” “ok,” “bad”) and rank the electrodes within each tier. Any electrodes that result in an unpleasant sensation are excluded from being used as a cathode. The system then determines multiple electrode configuration recommendation, preferably at least four differing configurations, according to pre-determined rules and are then presented to the clinician using the CP.

In one aspect, the electrode configurations are determined based on the threshold data according to the following rules: (1) Assign single cathode configurations for each contact in the “Good” tier, prioritized from farthest pair to closest pair; (2) Assign single cathode configurations for each contact in the “Good” tier, prioritized from lowest to highest threshold; (3) Assign double cathode configurations for each pair of adjacent electrodes in “Good” tier, prioritized by lowest combined threshold; (4) Assign single cathode configurations for each contact in the “OK” tier, prioritized from lowest to highest threshold; and (5) Assign double cathode configurations for each pair of adjacent electrodes from “Good” and “OK” tiers, prioritized by lowest combined threshold. The anodes for the cathode configurations are assigned as follows: for monopolar configuration, the IPG housing or “can” is assigned as the anode; for bipolar configuration, the electrode furthest from the cathode with acceptable impedance is assigned as the anode.

After identification of the electrode configuration recommendations, the system presents the electrode configuration recommendations to the physician, typically on a user interface of the CP such as shown in FIG. 18, on which the physician may select any of the electrode configurations for testing, modify a recommended electrode configuration as desired, or create a new electrode configuration. In one aspect, the system presents the electrode configuration recommendations within a selectable menu and may include one or more default values or attributes for a given electrode recommendation.

In one aspect, in an idealized setting in which each of the electrodes has a “good” impedance, the system simply recommends each of the contacts as a single cathode. Although it is desirable to have four “good” electrodes, it is acceptable to have at least three “good” electrodes for initial programming. The above algorithm recommends the best electrode selection for a given case. While each physician may have their own way to select electrode for programming, providing a set of electrode configuration recommendations that are easily viewed and selected by the physician helps standardize the process, reduce the duration of the procedure and provide improve patient outcomes, particularly for inexperienced implanters or minimally trained personnel.

In one aspect, the above algorithm assumes a single input parameter for the electrode threshold. In some embodiments, the system allows the physician to select, through the CP, what parameter(s) (sensory or motor responses or in combination) to use to determine the threshold for each electrode. The physician can also select whether to rely on EMG feedback or not for threshold determination. In another aspect, qualitative sensory feedback will be considered in electrode selection, e.g., if a patient reports unpleasant sensation for any specific electrode, this electrode will be excluded from being used as cathode. In another aspect, the algorithm prioritizes single cathode over double cathodes for all contacts in the “good” tier. In some embodiments, the electrodes are tiered according to the following tiers: “good”=“1-3 mA”; “ok”=“0.5-1 mA” and “3-4 mA”; “bad”=“<0.5 mA” and “>4 mA.”

FIGS. 19A-19B depict case studies illustrating selection of four electrode recommendations for a bipolar and mono-polar treatment according to the algorithms described above for each case 1 in FIG. 19A and case 2 in FIG. 19B.

D. Program Selection, Modification and Testing

In programming the neurostimulation system, an EMG signal can be used to evaluate programming quality by allowing user to see if a motor response is evoked by stimulation. In some embodiments, the user can manually observe EMG responses and enter the observations into the CP and try to set a stimulation amplitude at a level that evokes a desired motor response.

FIGS. 20A-20K illustrate the graphical user interface of the CP during initial programming and testing. FIG. 20A depicts the CP 60 re-connecting with the patient device and verifying the device info. The physician can confirm this by viewing the device info display 66 shown in FIG. 20B before proceeding with programming. FIG. 20B is the IPG data display which shows the threshold summary and contact status. The threshold data from “lead placement” will be recorded and can be viewed in summary form on this page. Symbols to right of each contact represent the impedance associated with that contact: Green (“good”): 50-3,000 Ohms, Red (“bad”): <50 or >3,000 Ohms. In some embodiments, yellow may indicate “marginal,” while in other embodiments there will not be a yellow option. The colored circles around each contact represent the qualitative assessment of that contact from lead placement. It is a summary of the information in the “threshold detail” tab. As shown in FIG. 20B, electrodes #0 and #1 are shown in green, electrode #2 is shown as orange, and electrode #3 is shown as red. In one aspect, the CP 60 can program the IPG/EPG without re-attaching to EMG patches by use of the electrode information and EMG waveforms and/or visual response and patient sensory data obtained by the CP 60 during lead placement. More typically, additional EMG data is obtained during programming from EMG patches coupled to the patient to detect at least one neuromuscular response. Programming may also utilize visual response data and sensory data obtained from the patient during programming.

FIG. 20C illustrates programming of the IPG and testing of the first electrode configuration recommendation shown on display 67, which shows four electrode configuration recommendations determined according to the algorithms discussed above. The electrode configuration recommendations are based off input from the Threshold Detail determined during lead placement characterization (see FIG. 151). It is appreciated that the electrode thresholds could also be determined during programming. Colored circles around each contact represent the qualitative assessment of that contact from lead placement. It is a summary of the information in the “threshold detail” tab. The presence of motor response and quality of the sensory response is manually recorded for retrospective data analysis purposes. The amplitude adjustment can be done in an auto-adjusting increments or fixed increments as discussed previously.

In the first electrode configuration recommendation in FIG. 20C, the lead operates in a bi-polar mode between electrodes 0 and 3, electrode #0 acting as the cathode and electrode #3 acting as the anode. The big toe response and amplitude is recorded during stimulation of the first configuration and the visually observed motor response and the subjective sensory response from the patient is entered through the display. The same procedure is repeated for each of the four electrode recommendations, as shown in FIG. 20D, in which a double cathode configuration is being tested.

In one aspect, the graphical user interface allows the user to adjust various parameters associated with each of the recommended electrode configurations being tested. For example, as shown in FIG. 20E, the graphical user interface of the CP 60 includes an Additional Parameters display 68 in which the physician select and adjust various parameters (e.g. Frequency, Pulse Width, Cycling and Mode) associated with each electrode configuration as needed for a particular therapy and/or patient. After adjustment, the EMG response and amplitude data can be updated and recorded in the CP 60. In another aspect, the physician may re-assign the electrode polarity associated with a given electrode configuration recommendation using the CP, such as shown in FIG. 20G, in which the cursor can be used to change the electrode polarity on the electrode status display 64. In yet another aspect, the user may switch between bipolar and mono-polar modes by selecting the Mode button in the Additional Parameters display 68. Upon selection of mono-polar mode, the CP 60 will display multiple mono-polar electrode configuration recommendations, as shown in FIG. 20H. When the physician is satisfied with the electrode configuration settings, the physician may proceed to save the settings in the CP 60 by selecting the Patient Device menu, as shown in FIG. 20J, confirming the therapy settings, such as viewing the Current Therapy display 69 shown in FIG. 20K, and saving the therapy to the Patient Device, after which the IPG/EPG are fully programmed and the CP 60 may be detached.

In one aspect, after programming of the IPG/EPG in accordance with the above described methods, the patient evaluates the selected program over a pre-determined period of time. Typically, the patient is able to make limited adjustments to the program, such as increasing or decreasing the amplitude or turning the treatment off. If after the assessment period, the patient has not experienced relief from the treated condition or if other problems develop, the patient returns to the physician and a re-programming of the IPG/EPG is conducted with the CP in a process similar to the programming methods described above, to select an alternative electrode configuration from the recommended configuration or to develop a new treatment program that provides effective treatment.

TABLE 3 EMG-enabled Neurostimulation Programming CP Device Alternate CP Device Step Use of EMG User feedback Use of EMG User feedback General Patch/surface EMG Visual response, Patch/surface EMG Visual response, recording from only 1 including indicator of recording from only 1 including indicator of muscle (either bellows max response muscle (either bellows max response or big toe) amplitude or big toe) amplitude Electrode EMG responses Visual response Stimulation Simple display to characterization displayed during indicates whether or automatically screens indicate whether each stimulation not the electrode is each contact to verify a contact is good/bad activating the target motor response can be nerve (e.g., confirms evoked placement still good) Parameter EMG responses Visual response Stimulation increases Simple visual selection displayed during indicates whether or automatically and representation lets the stimulation not the selected gives a simple user know a response amplitude sufficient indication of when an has been evoked to evoke a response intial EMG response and a maximum response are evoked User can stop stimulation if patient becomes uncomfortable

In the foregoing specification, the invention is described with reference to specific embodiments thereof, but those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited thereto. Various features and aspects of the above-described invention can be used individually or jointly. Further, the invention can be utilized in any number of environments and applications beyond those described herein without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the specification. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. It will be recognized that the terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” as used herein, are specifically intended to be read as open-ended terms of art. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of programming a neurostimulation device for treatment of overactive bladder and/or fecal incontinence, the neurostimulation device having an implanted neurostimulation lead with a plurality of electrodes that is operatively coupled with a clinician programmer, the method comprising: receiving a stimulation threshold value for each of the plurality of electrodes with the clinician programmer, wherein the stimulation threshold value is based, at least in part, on an electromyographic (EMG) recording of at least one neuromuscular response during stimulation of each electrode of the plurality of electrodes; generating, with the clinician programmer, a plurality of recommended electrode configurations for a plurality of electrodes of the implanted neurostimulation lead by: identifying, based on the received stimulation threshold values, cathode configurations of the plurality of recommended electrode configurations, identifying anode configurations of the plurality of recommended electrode configurations; outputting the plurality of recommended electrode configurations, which include the identified cathode and anode configurations, to a user on a graphical user interface display of the clinician programmer for selection by the user; and determining one or more neurostimulation programs for one or more electrode configurations of the plurality of recommended electrode configurations with the clinician programmer for treatment of overactive bladder and/or fecal incontinence.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein identifying the cathode configurations comprises: categorizing the plurality of electrodes in one of at least three different tiers based on the stimulation threshold values, the at least three different tiers including a first tier, a second tier and a third tier, the first tier denoting good electrodes for therapy delivery, the second tier denoting marginal electrodes for delivering therapy, and the third tier denoting electrodes unacceptable for delivering therapy; ranking electrodes within each tier as to suitability for delivering neurostimulation therapy; and assigning the cathode configurations of the plurality of recommended electrode configurations with the clinician programmer based on the ranking of electrodes and tiers and a pre-determined criteria.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the pre-determined criteria comprises: (i) assigning single cathode configurations for each electrode in the first tier, prioritized from lowest to highest threshold.
 4. The method of claim 3, the pre-determined criteria further comprising: (ii) assigning double cathode configurations for each pair of adjacent electrodes in the first tier, prioritized by lowest combined threshold.
 5. The method of claim 4, the pre-determined criteria further comprising: (iii) assigning single cathode configurations for each electrode in the second tier, prioritized from lowest to highest threshold.
 6. The method of claim 5, the pre-determined criteria further comprising: (iv) assigning double cathode configurations for each pair of adjacent electrodes in the second tier, prioritized by lowest combined threshold.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the pre-determined criteria is applied in the order recited in the respective claims.
 8. The method of claim 2, wherein identifying anode configurations comprises assigning as an anode for each cathode configuration an electrode of the plurality of electrodes furthest from an assigned cathode when the respective configuration corresponds to bipolar operation.
 9. The method of claim 2, further comprising: obtaining, with the clinician programmer, an impedance measurement for each electrode of the plurality and excluding any electrode with an unacceptable impedance from being assigned as a cathode or anode.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of recommended electrode configurations comprise bipolar and/or monopolar configurations.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein at least one of the plurality of recommended electrode configurations includes a monopolar configuration with a can or housing of an implantable pulse generator identified as an anode.
 12. A method of programming a neurostimulation device for treatment of overactive bladder and/or fecal incontinence, the neurostimulation device having an implanted neurostimulation lead with a plurality of electrodes that is operatively coupled with a clinician programmer, the method comprising: generating, with the clinician programmer, a plurality of recommended electrode configurations for a plurality of electrodes of the implanted neurostimulation lead by: receiving an electromyographic (EMG) recording of at least one neuromuscular response during stimulation of each electrode of the plurality of electrodes; determining, based on the EMG recording, a stimulation threshold value for each of the plurality of electrodes; identifying, based on the determined stimulation threshold values, cathode configurations of the plurality of recommended electrode configurations, and identifying anode configurations of the plurality of recommended electrode configurations; outputting the plurality of recommended electrode configurations, which include the identified cathode and anode configurations, to a user on a graphical user interface display of the clinician programmer for selection by the user.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein identifying the cathode configurations comprises: categorizing the plurality of electrodes in one of at least three different tiers based on the stimulation threshold values, the at least three different tiers including a first tier, a second tier and a third tier, the first tier denoting good electrodes for therapy delivery, the second tier denoting marginal electrodes for delivering therapy, and the third tier denoting electrodes unacceptable for delivering therapy; ranking electrodes within each tier as to suitability for delivering neurostimulation therapy; and assigning the cathode configurations of the plurality of recommended electrode configurations with the clinician programmer based on the ranking of electrodes and tiers and a pre-determined criteria.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the pre-determined criteria comprises: (i) assigning single cathode configurations for each electrode in the first tier, prioritized from lowest to highest threshold.
 15. The method of claim 14, the pre-determined criteria further comprising: (ii) assigning double cathode configurations for each pair of adjacent electrodes in the first tier, prioritized by lowest combined threshold.
 16. The method of claim 15, the pre-determined criteria further comprising: (iii) assigning single cathode configurations for each electrode in the second tier, prioritized from lowest to highest threshold.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the pre-determined criteria is applied in the order recited in the respective claims.
 18. The method of claim 13, wherein identifying anode configurations comprises assigning as an anode for each cathode configuration an electrode of the plurality of electrodes furthest from an assigned cathode when the respective configuration corresponds to bipolar operation.
 19. The method of claim 13, further comprising: obtaining, with the clinician programmer, an impedance measurement for each electrode of the plurality and excluding any electrode with an unacceptable impedance from being assigned as a cathode or anode.
 20. The method of claim 12, wherein at least one of the plurality of recommended electrode configurations includes a monopolar configuration with a can or housing of an implantable pulse generator identified as an anode. 